Flooring sets the tone for any room, and homeowners today want surfaces that are not only beautiful but also practical. One of the most in-demand solutions? Waterproof laminate flooring. It’s stylish, durable, cost-effective, and—most importantly—can handle the everyday messes of busy households.
With so many options available, choosing the right waterproof laminate flooring can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve done the research for you. In this guide, we’ll break down the top waterproof laminate flooring brands, explore what makes them stand out, and help you decide which option is best for your home.
Why Waterproof Laminate Flooring?
Before we dive into the top picks, let’s quickly highlight why waterproof laminate is such a smart investment:
- Water Protection: Designed to resist water damage, it’s ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements.
- Wood-Look Appeal: Offers the natural beauty of hardwood without the high price tag.
- Durability: Scratch, stain, and wear-resistant—perfect for families with kids or pets.
- Ease of Installation: Most waterproof laminate flooring features a click-lock system for simple, DIY-friendly installation.
- Low Maintenance: Easy to clean and maintain, requiring only basic care.
Now, let’s get into the top waterproof laminate flooring options you should consider.
1. NAF Waterproof Laminate Flooring
Why it’s a top pick:
NAF Flooring (North American Flooring) has made a name for itself by offering high-performance laminate options with waterproof technology. Their products are engineered for both beauty and resilience.
Key Features:
- 100% waterproof core
- Premium high-density fiberboard (HDF)
- AC4-rated durability (great for residential and light commercial use)
- Variety of wood-look finishes including Oak, Walnut, and Hickory
- Easy click-lock installation system
- FloorScore-certified for indoor air quality
Best For:
Homeowners who want eco-friendly, durable, and elegant flooring that performs well in high-moisture areas.
2. Fuzion Flooring Waterproof Laminate
Why it’s a top pick:
Fuzion Flooring offers stylish, waterproof laminate collections that combine cutting-edge manufacturing with a flair for contemporary design.
Key Features:
- High-quality waterproof construction
- Textured finishes that mimic hand-scraped hardwood
- Available in wide plank formats
- Scratch-resistant surface with UV protection
- Suitable for below-grade (basement) installations
Best For:
Design-focused buyers who want laminate that looks as luxurious as engineered hardwood but offers greater moisture protection.
3. Mohawk RevWood Plus
Why it’s a top pick:
Mohawk is a globally trusted brand in flooring, and their RevWood Plus collection is one of the most advanced waterproof laminate lines available.
Key Features:
- Uniclic® technology with GenuEdge® pressed bevels
- AllPet® protection—perfect for pet owners
- Hydroseal™ waterproof finish
- Scratch, dent, and fade resistance
- Lifetime residential warranty
Best For:
Families with pets and kids who need flooring that can withstand spills, scratches, and lots of activity.
4. Shaw Repel Water Resistant Laminate
Why it’s a top pick:
Shaw Floors has engineered its Repel collection to offer superior water resistance with beautiful, realistic wood visuals.
Key Features:
- 24-hour water resistance
- Built-in moisture barrier
- Enhanced visuals and texture to replicate real hardwood
- AC4 durability rating
- Easy maintenance and cleaning
Best For:
Busy homes where you want the natural look of wood but need reliable water protection.
5. Pergo Outlast+
Why it’s a top pick:
Pergo is considered a pioneer in the laminate flooring space. Their Outlast+ collection is one of the most waterproof laminate options on the market.
Key Features:
- SpillProtect™ technology offers 24-hour water protection
- ScratchGuard™ Advanced finish
- AC4-rated wear layer
- Antimicrobial surface coating
- Lifetime limited residential warranty
Best For:
Homeowners who want the toughest waterproof protection in high-traffic, high-spill areas like kitchens or laundry rooms.
6. Twelve Oaks SureWood Collection
Why it’s a top pick:
Twelve Oaks is a Canadian flooring company known for combining style and technology. Their SureWood laminate features advanced waterproofing and a wide range of on-trend colors.
Key Features:
- Water-resistant core and locking system
- Matte finishes and realistic wood embossing
- Click installation with Uniclic system
- Environmentally friendly, low-VOC certified
Best For:
Eco-conscious buyers looking for premium laminate that’s modern and moisture-friendly.
7. KronoSwiss Aqua Stop
Why it’s a top pick:
Swiss precision meets performance. KronoSwiss Aqua Stop laminate offers long-lasting beauty and superior resistance to water and humidity.
Key Features:
- Aqua Stop technology with 72-hour water resistance
- European-made, FSC-certified materials
- AC5-rated for commercial durability
- Authentic textures and grain patterns
- UV-resistant topcoat
Best For:
Those seeking European-engineered quality in areas where water exposure is frequent.
How to Choose the Best Waterproof Laminate for Your Home
With so many great options, how do you choose? Here are some important factors to consider:
1. Room Location
Where will the flooring be installed? For bathrooms or laundry rooms, prioritize 100% waterproof ratings. For basements, ensure the laminate is rated for below-grade use.
2. AC Rating
The Abrasion Criteria (AC) rating indicates wear resistance:
- AC3: Residential use
- AC4: Light commercial
- AC5: Heavy commercial
The higher the AC rating, the more durable the surface.
3. Style & Finish
Laminate is available in various styles—wide planks, rustic textures, distressed finishes, and more. Choose one that matches your home’s decor.
4. Warranty
Look for products that offer at least 15–25 years of residential warranty. Some high-end brands even offer lifetime warranties.
5. Ease of Installation
Click-lock or Uniclic systems are DIY-friendly and can be installed without glue or nails. Some laminates also come with attached underlayment for extra convenience.
6. Certifications
Opt for floors that are FloorScore or CARB2 compliant for indoor air safety.
Tips for Installing Waterproof Laminate Flooring
Here are some installation tips to make sure your new waterproof laminate performs at its best:
- Acclimate the planks: Let them sit in the room for 48 hours before installation.
- Use underlayment if not already attached—this improves insulation and soundproofing.
- Leave expansion gaps around the perimeter of the room (about 1/4 inch).
- Seal joints in high-moisture areas with waterproof sealant for added protection.
For best results, especially in moisture-prone rooms, professional installation is recommended—unless you’re confident with your DIY skills.
Maintenance and Care Tips
Although waterproof laminate is built tough, regular care will keep it looking new for longer:
- Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove debris and grit.
- Wipe spills promptly, even though it’s waterproof—it helps preserve the seams.
- Use a damp (not wet) mop for deeper cleaning.
- Avoid harsh chemicals and steam mops.
- Use felt pads under furniture to prevent scratching.
Final Thoughts: Is Waterproof Laminate Right for You?
If you’re looking for flooring that combines style, strength, and water resistance, waterproof laminate is a strong contender. It’s a perfect match for:
- Families with children or pets
- High-traffic households
- Rooms with moisture exposure
- Budget-conscious renovations
From the sleek sophistication of Fuzion Flooring to the heavy-duty protection of Pergo Outlast+, today’s top waterproof laminate options deliver on every front—aesthetics, functionality, and value.
Take your time exploring styles, samples, and specifications. And when you’re ready, visit a trusted flooring retailer (like Vellfinish Floors in Brampton, Ontario) to find expert advice and the perfect product for your space.